Sandpipers · Shorebirds
Terek Sandpiper
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Xenus cinereus
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How to recognize it
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Small wader, slightly larger than Common Sandpiper
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Long bill, clearly upcurved; yellow base, black tip
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Grey-brown upperparts, white underparts; pale supercilium
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Flight shows a broad white wing bar on the rear edge; call a fast series of short whistles
About the species
The Terek Sandpiper stands out with its long, slightly upcurved bill and lively manner. It is not a shy shorebird, and when it is around, its quick movements often catch the eye first.
It runs fast, changes direction sharply, and gives short whistling calls in flight. During courtship, the male trembles his wings and body in a noisy display, and when alarmed it gives a sharp "vet'-vet'-vet'".
It breeds near freshwater on marshy banks, wet flats, river floodplains, and meadowy floodlands. It feeds on insects and their larvae, and on migration it also takes mollusks, crustaceans, and other small prey; in winter it moves to southern seacoasts.
Where to find
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Along muddy pond edges, canal banks, and quiet river margins — where shallow water meets soft silt, the Terek Sandpiper runs the shoreline and often rinses prey at the water’s edge.
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On exposed mudflats after the water drops — easiest to notice by its rapid, stop-start dashes and long upcurved bill probing the mud.
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On wet floodplain meadows with willows and reeds — it stays close to tussocks and low grass, giving a sharp whistle before flushing.
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Near backwaters and overgrown lakes in shaded spots — it may sit on a snag or low branch beside the water, standing out as a restless lookout.
You might also see
Sources
- eBird — Xenus cinereus Sightings map and full description on eBird
- Wikipedia — Terek sandpiper Encyclopedia article